Melbourne is officially the sporting capital of the world.

The city took top spot at the SportBusiness Ultimate Sport City Awards – the longest running rankings of the world’s top sports hosts, stealing the title from Berlin, London, New York and Sydney, the Victorian government said on Wednesday.

It was the fourth time Melbourne had taken out the title, with wins in 2006, 2008 and 2010.

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Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews said Melbournians had plenty of sport to look forward to.

“Our legacy is unrivalled, but our future is just as outstanding,” Mr Andrews said in a statement on Thursday.

In the past year, Melbourne has secured the return of the Presidents Cup, the World Cup of Golf, the International Champions Cup and a Socceroos blockbuster with Greece.

“It’s why European giants Liverpool and Real Madrid choose our state for their overseas tours,” Mr Andrews said.

“It’s why Sydneysiders had to come to Victoria to see a State of Origin match played in front of 90,000 fans.”

Melbourne boasts the 100,000-capacity Melbourne Cricket Ground, as well as Hi-Sense Arena, Melbourne Park, Etihad Stadium and AAMI Stadium.

John Eren, the Victorian Minister for Sport echoed the sentiments, emphasising the breadth of sport available.

“Whether it’s a Formula 1 Grand Prix, a Tennis Grand Slam, the world’s best Spring Racing Carnival or a one-off blockbuster at the MCG, Melbourne is at the top of the bucket list of sports fans right around the globe,” he said in a statement.

– with AAP